In brief
In the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, five nations, including Poland and the Baltic States, are reconsidering their stance on land mines, a weapon banned by international treaty for over 25 years. This resurgence in interest towards antipersonnel mines aims to bolster defenses against potential Russian aggression. Although the move has sparked outrage from anti-mine organizations, the transition from treaty to practical use may take time, as formal exit from the ban will require a planned six-month process. Critics argue that this action undermines decades of progress made towards the elimination of such deadly weapons, with the International Campaign to Ban Landmines voicing their disappointment and anger over the potential revival of a Cold War horror.
